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Winter is here. The days are getting shorter as day turns to evening in the blink of an eye before the table's even set for dinner. If you're like us, it's hard not to slip into a seasonal depression when the season changes. Experts can't explain exactly what causes it but believe it's a disruption in our circadian rhythm: our 24-hour clock that regulates how we function during sleeping and waking hours.

As many as 4-6% of Americans suffer from what's called SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder, and another 20% have a mild form when the temperature and daylight hours drop. A few common symptoms include fatigue, change in appetite or irritability.

If you're feeling the effects, there are a few remedies to overcome it!

First, try light therapy. Sometimes, light from a box mimics sunlight and provides much brighter light than a regular bulb. If you sit by one for about 30 minutes per day, it stimulates the circadian rhythm in your body to suppress the natural release of melatonin.

Next, try to add aromatherapy to your routine. The essential oils, like that of lavender, influences the brain's mood control center.

Finally, GET MOVING! We've said this a few times before, but, exercise induces chemicals in your brain that alters your mood. You'll feel happier and more relaxed by simply jumping on a treadmill or taking a walk outside.

There are more options to beat the winter blues, visit EverydayHealth.com for their expert advice!

As always, we are here to help you stay independent. Give us a call to find out how we can help you beat the winter blues.

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Finding yourself or a loved one in need of a wheelchair? You may be scratching your head wondering how to choose the right one. There are a series of questions to consider when deciding which one to purchase. ​

Will the user be pushing the chair or will a companion?

Is the chair self-propelled or foot propelled?

What is the user's height and weight?

How much time will be spent in the chair?

Will you be transporting it often?

Once you've answered those questions, you can start to deepen your search and consider adjustable leg rest, arm rests, back height and depth among others to make the user most comfortable!

We are happy to walk you through the process, give us a call anytime at 816-505-1303 to discuss the best option for you!

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We believe taking control of your health is up to you and we are all providers, payers, practitioners and patients. To advocate for an empowered and healthy community we've found a few resources to keep you connected and educated.

First up is Health:Further, a podcast with an open organized around two very important points. The first is thathealth is a human right and second is that health must be supported affordably and sustainably. Some of their open community conversations include topics such as Building a System to Break Down Barriers, Passion in Health and Life, Helping Consumers see their Purpose and Eliminating Friction for Patients. Listen online!

Next, Healthcare Dive takes an interesting perspective on Health IT, care delivery, healthcare policy and regulation as well as health insurance. Healthcare Diver offers daily newsletters to keep you in the know! One recent article expanded on the healthcare crisis in rural America, yet some hospitals are finding a way to grow. Find out how these rural areas are beating the odds.

Like podcasts as much as we do? Our last resource today is Better Health While Aging, a podcast by a Geriatrician. Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, talks about Innovations to help Older Adults and Caregivers to What to Know about Flu Shots for Older Adults. Tune in for practical tips from Leslie and contributing industry experts. ​This is not a paid advertisement. The team here at Happy Living Medical Sales believes you should be empowered to take control of your health.

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Every November is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers, while it's also a time to educate caregivers on self-identification and increase support for them. The promotion of National Caregivers Month began in 1994 by the Caregiver Action Network (the National Family Caregivers Association) and President Clinton signed the first NFC Month Presidential Proclamation in 1997. Each president thereafter has followed suit, issuing an annual proclamation every November.

Not all caregiver stories look like the pictures. As a caregiver, you can sometimes feel alone or like you're the only one feeling a certain way. The reality is that often times many people are in the same shoes. Caregiver Action Network shares stories just like that, everyday. Join their community to share your own!

The Caregiver Action Network also offers connections to other organizations such as advocacy assistance and training for family caregivers.

Give yourself credit, caregivers have one of the toughest roles out there. Thank you for all that you do!